Hughes Fire Forces Evacuations Near Castaic Amid Red Flag Warnings

CASTAIC, Calif. — A rapidly spreading wildfire erupted north of Castaic on Wednesday, prompting evacuations and road closures as Southern California faces another wave of fire danger. The Hughes fire, which began near Lake Hughes Road, quickly grew amid red flag warnings for high winds and dry conditions.

Evacuation orders were issued shortly after 11 a.m. for areas including Bittersweet Canyon, Charlie Canyon, Greenhill, and regions north of Castaic, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The blaze is burning near Lake Castaic, extending toward Interstate 5 to the west and south of Sandberg to the north.

“The fire is moving fast, and conditions are extremely dangerous,” said a spokesperson for the fire department. Residents were urged to monitor official channels for updates on evacuation routes and safety instructions.

The Hughes fire adds to a series of wildfires that have plagued the region in recent weeks, including the Eaton and Palisades fires, which have destroyed hundreds of homes and left thousands displaced. At least 17 deaths have been confirmed in the Eaton fire, with all fatalities occurring in the Altadena area.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger has called for an outside investigation into the evacuation process during the Eaton fire, citing delays in issuing evacuation orders. “There has to be a thorough examination of life-saving emergency notifications,” Barger said. “From what I have been told, it was a night of pure chaos for both fire and first responders.”

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has launched a Looter Suppression Team to patrol evacuated neighborhoods and prevent theft. “We are committed to protecting the property of residents who have already suffered so much,” a department spokesperson said.

As the region braces for potential rain this weekend, Mayor Karen Bass issued an emergency executive order to stabilize burn areas and protect watersheds. “We must act now to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of our communities,” Bass said.

With firefighting resources stretched thin, officials are also exploring long-term solutions, including a proposed database to track residents with disabilities who may need assistance during evacuations. “This is about saving lives and ensuring no one is left behind,” said L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone.

As the Hughes fire continues to burn, residents remain on edge, grappling with the ongoing threat of wildfires and the challenges of rebuilding in their aftermath.